Faith and the Public Life: Medical Assistance in Dying

Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID)

On February 6, 2015 the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that sections of the Criminal Code that had prohibited physician-assisted death were no longer in force and that a medically-assisted death could be allowed, but under strict criteria of protection.

In the public square and in the church, this decision stimulated conversations about dying, death and how we make decisions together. This conversation has sometimes felt uncomfortable, sometimes been enriching and sometimes revealed a deep yearning to live faithfully in all of life’s realities.

At the upcoming ELCIC National Convention, delegates will be asked to decide on a resolution that speaks to our new public reality around end-of-life care: The Call to Faithfully Journey with those who are Dying.

Two events are planned for February 21 to help us discern together our path forward as a church. All members are welcome to attend both:

Seniors’ FellowshipThursday, February 21, 1:30 p.m.At the February Seniors’ Fellowship, Pastor Ron Weatherington will facilitate a theological and ethical conversation on Medical Assistance in Dying. This is a sensitive issue for many, raising deep questions about life, death, and faith. The conversation will be open and caring, and follow the guidelines suggested by the ELCIC study document on this topic.

Faith and the Public LifeThursday, February 21, 7:00 p.m.In the evening, the community is invited to attend a presentation by Dr. James Silvius, Provincial Medical Director of Seniors Health, and AHS Lead for Medical Assistance in Dying. Dr. Silvius will introduce us to the legislation and practice of MAID in our province, and guide us through many of the practical issues surrounding health care in this important moment. We welcome all to join us.